It's no surprise that most peoples favorite time of the year is Christmas time. The combination of dazzling lights, a snowy winter wonderland (if you're lucky), and rich hot chocolate makes for quite an amazing time. Unfortunately, Texas seems to always skip this wonderful wintery time with its 70-degree weather in December (not kidding). So this year, to make sure Texas' Christmas spirit remains high, here are some spirited things to do around Texas to get you in the Christmas mood.
1. The Trail of Lights in Austin.
The Trail of Lights has been a tradition for all Austinites since 1965. The mesmerizing lights stretch across Zilker Park in the heart of the city. Scenes and images from various children books, movies and important Austin-ie things are created with the lights making this perfect for all ages. And although the lights are gorgeous, turn your head towards the city and you will be hypnotized by the skyline of Austin.
Tip: Before drinking delicious hot chocolate or eating funnel cake, go under the large Christmas tree made of lights with a friend or family member, hold both of each other's hands, look up, and spin around. Hysterical laughing fits and dizziness will ensue.
2. ICE! at The Gaylord in Grapevine.
ICE! is a perfect adventure for anyone who wants to feel like they are right in The North Pole. Two million pounds of hand-carved ice creates wintery scenes and vibrant holiday displays from cultures all around the world. If you're feeling creative yourself after sliding down the ice slides and gawking at the elegant, crystal-clear, nativity scene, you can carve your own ice at the interactive ice carving station.
Tip: After spending an amazing evening at ICE!, head to downtown Grapevine and explore the shops, boutiques, and restaurants that are lit up with sparkling Christmas lights. Once you're dying for some delicious Italian food, head to Napoli's of Grapevine and end your night with some pasta and gelato.
3. Highland Park carriage rides in Highland Park.
Whether you're looking for the perfect date or the perfect place to spend time with your family and friends, this magnificent horse drawn carriage is sure to be the place to do it. Explore Highland Park's elaborately decorated neighborhoods and town square while bundled in a blanket with the people that matter to you most. An excellent way to get in the Christmas spirit if you're celebrating the season with your elders or those who can't handle a lot of walking.
4. The 12 Days of Christmas at The Dallas Arboretum in Dallas.
With 500,000 lights strung through The Botanical Garden, The 12 Days of Christmas is a magical wonderland. Grab a cup of delicious tea and gaze at the illuminated, hand-crafted gazebos with enchanting holiday scenes with family and friends. The extravagantly decorated garden is the perfect place to make memories during the holiday season.
5. San Antonio Christmas on The Riverwalk in San Antonio.
The Riverwalk in San Antonio during the holiday season is one of the most spirited places in Texas. Wrapped in vibrant, stunning, strings of lights, this magical place will captivate you and keep you exploring the riverwalk for hours. Once you need a rest, stop by one of the many cafes or restaurants along the walk and sit and enjoy the glittering lights and boats drift by.
Tip: If you're not feeling like walking or are celebrating with an older person, hop on a boat and float down the river under all of the many lights.
6. 37th Street in Austin.
If you're looking to find the people with the most holiday cheer, look no further then 37th Street and the old residential neighborhood surrounding it in Austin. The residents of this street each year decorate their houses in lavish lights for the enjoyment of all Austinites. What's special about this street is that much like Austin, these light displays tend to be very different and hippy-ish so if it's a modern-hipster Christmas you want, then head on over to 37th Street.
7. Zoo lights in Houston.
Love animals and Christmas? This is the perfect place for you during the holidays. With two million lights decorating the Houston Zoo, visitors can see the animals, aquarium, and reptiles while walking through a colorful winter wonderland.
8. Mozart's Coffee Roasters in Austin.
Mozart's Coffee Roasters is a gem located right on Lake Austin. Each night a dazzling light display is performed while people sit and sip coffee and hot chocolate by the lake. It's a magical outdoor experience that is ideal for catching up with friends and family during the holidays.
9. Carol of The Lights in Lubbock.
If you find yourself in Lubbock this holiday season, be sure to attend Carol of The Lights put on by Texas Tech University. Listen to the Texas Tech Combined Choir sing carols while you enjoy the raider-red Christmas lights in Memorial Circle and drink hot chocolate.
10. Houston Ballet's, "The Nutcracker," at Brown Theater in Houston.
The elegant and impressive performance of "The Nutcracker" is perfect for those who want a traditional Christmas. The combination of the talented ballerinas, and the hypnotizing music of the orchestra will make for an incredible Christmas experience that will be hard to forget. This performance will be sure to get any Texan in the Christmas spirit.
Have a very merry and Texan Christmas!
